WFBL Says “Ciao” This Sunday

Nope, it’s not another format change. “Ciao!” is the name of a new Italian-heritage show WFBL is launching this weekend. It’ll be hosted by two good friends of the late Armond Magnarelli, who hosted his own local Italian radio show for 17 years.

“Ciao!” with Joey Nigro and Jim Battaglia will debut this Sunday from 5-7PM. WFBL/WSEN General Manager Judy Kelly realizes “we’ll never be able to replace Armond,” but notes that many listeners have been asking the station to “bring back the Italian show.” She believes Magnarelli “would be pleased to know that a new show has evolved from the show he hosted.”

About the hosts, WFBL notes that Mr. Battaglia was born in Italy, has returned to visit on several occasions, and maintains dual citizenship. Ms. Nigro worked alongside Magnarelli when she was a singer with the Pompeian Players.

WFBL says the debut “Ciao!” broadcast will be a tribute to the late Armond Magnarelli, with special guests including Jim Magnarelli, Nick Colineri and Mario DeSantis. Following the tribute show, a press release says listeners can expect:

‘All Things Italian, American Style’ with content stemming from both the Italian and the Italian-American culture. “Ciao!!” will feature Italian music, as well as information about travel, recipes, tracing one’s family roots, Italian communities, and so much more!